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Case of severe paediatric influenza A infection under CHP investigation
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     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (January 17) investigating a case of severe paediatric influenza A infection affecting a 6-year-old boy.

     The patient, with underlying illnesses, has presented with fever, cough and runny nose since January 15. He attended a private hospital on January 17 and his nasopharyngeal swab tested positive for influenza A virus upon laboratory testing by the hospital.

     He was brought to the Accident and Emergency Department of Tuen Mun Hospital on the same day and was subsequently transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit for further management due to convulsion after admission and deteriorated condition.

     His clinical diagnosis was influenza A complicated with shock and febrile convulsion. He is currently in stable condition after treatment.

     Initial investigation revealed that he had no travel history during incubation period. His mother had mild upper respiratory symptoms fews days ago but recovered. Other home contacts remained asymptomatic.

     Investigation is ongoing.

     To prevent respiratory tract infections, a spokesman for the CHP urged members of the public to take heed of the following advice:

* Build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* Maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands after sneezing or coughing and cleaning the nose, and wear a mask when symptoms of respiratory tract infection develop;
* Maintain good ventilation;
* When influenza is prevalent, avoid going to crowded or poorly ventilated public places; high-risk individuals may consider to put on surgical masks when staying in these places; and
* Receive seasonal influenza vaccination. For details, please visit the Influenza Page of the CHP's website(www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/14843.html).

Ends/Saturday, January 17, 2015
Issued at HKT 22:14

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